How to Tell if eCommerce Business Should Offer Free Return on Shipping

Introduction

Returns are a necessary part of doing business online. While it may be tempting to skimp on return policies to boost profits, this can do more harm than good in the long run.

If you're not offering free returns, you could miss out on many potential sales. In this blog post, we'll discuss the four signs that your business needs to start offering free returns.

The four signs that your ecommerce business needs to start offering free returns

1) The first sign: You do not see the sales you want

If your eCommerce business isn't seeing the sales you want, it could be because you're not offering free returns. In today's market, shoppers are used to having free returns as an option, and if they don't see that option available, they're likely to take their business elsewhere.

2) The second sign: Your customers are asking for free returns

If your customer base is asking for free returns, it's a sign that you should start offering them. Not only will this make your customers happy, but it will also show that you're listening to their feedback and willing to make changes to improve their experience.

3) The third sign: Your competitors are offering free returns

Free returns can give you a competitive edge; if your competitors are already taking advantage of that, you don't want to be left behind. Moreover, by offering free returns, you're telling your customers that you're just as committed to their satisfaction as your competitors are. If your competitors offer free returns and you're not, it's time to level the playing field.

4) The fourth sign: You're losing money on returns

If you're losing money on returns, it's a sign that you need to reevaluate your return policy. There are several ways to do this, but one way is to offer free returns. That will not only save you money, but it will also send a message to your customers that you're committed to their satisfaction.

Benefits of offering free return

1) Increased sales

When you offer free returns, you're more likely to see an increase in sales. That is because customers are likely to purchase from a store that offers free returns.

They know that if they're not satisfied with their purchase, they can return it for free, and they'll be more likely to take the risk of buying something that they might not otherwise have purchased.

2) Improved customer satisfaction

Offering free returns also improves customer satisfaction. Customers are more likely to be satisfied with their purchase when they know they can return it for free if they're unhappy. This increased satisfaction can lead to repeat customers and positive word-of-mouth reviews.

3) Reduced costs

Although it may seem counterintuitive, offering free returns can save business money in the long run. Returns are costly to process, and businesses often have to mark returned items as "damaged" or "used," which can lead to further losses.

By offering free returns, businesses can avoid these costs and instead focus on selling products that their customers will love.

4) Enhanced reputation

Offering free returns can help businesses enhance their reputation and build customer trust. When customers know they can return an item for free, they're more likely to take a chance on a new product or brand. It can lead to increased sales and loyalty in the long run.

5) Greater customer loyalty

When customers know they can return an item for free, they're more likely to be loyal to a brand or store. This loyalty can lead to increased sales and repeat business.

Best Practices for Offering Free Returns

1) Keep it simple

The best way to offer free returns is to keep the process as simple as possible. It should be easy. Customers should be able to return an item without having to fill out a lot of paperwork or jump through hoops.

2) Offer multiple return options

Customers should have a few different options for returning an item. This could include mailing it back, dropping it off at a store, or using a pre-paid shipping label. Giving customers choices makes the process more convenient and likely to result in a return.

3) Have a clear return policy

It's important to have a clear and concise return policy that is easy for customers to understand. The policy should be prominently displayed on your website and in your store. It should spell out what is eligible for a return, how long customers have to make a return, and any other relevant details.

4) Communicate your policy to customers

Ensure that your return policy is communicated to customers at the time of purchase. It could be done through signage in your store, website, or receipts. Communicating the policy upfront will help avoid confusion or frustration later on.

5) Use free return shipping labels

If you are selling online, offer free return shipping labels to make the process easy for customers. You can either include the label with the original shipment or send it separately if the item is returned.

6) Make it easy for customers to return items

The return process should be as easy as possible for customers. Consider offering multiple return options, such as in-store, by mail, or via a third-party service. If the user experience is positive, customers will be more likely to return items and shop with you in the future.

How can ClickPost help you make the most out of your free returns?

ClickPost is a Logistic Intelligence platform that helps you automate eCommerce returns management. We offer a returns management solution that is easy to set up and integrates with all the major eCommerce platforms.

1) Seamless Integration

ClickPost integrates with all the major eCommerce platforms, so you can manage your entire returns process from one place.

2) Automated Returns Management

ClickPost automatically generates return labels and emails them to customers. We also track returned items and keep you updated on the status of each return.

3) Reduced Costs

It offers discounted rates on shipping labels, so you can save money on every return.

4) Excellent Customer Service

Our customer service team is available 24/7 to help you with any return issues you may have.

Conclusion 

Offering free returns is a great way to increase customer satisfaction and loyalty. You can save time and money on every return with automated return labels and tracking.

And with ClickPost, it's easy to manage your entire returns process from one place. Plus, our excellent customer service team is available 24/7 to help you with any issues you may have.